The UAE’s 2026 public holiday calendar is shaping up to be an excellent year for long weekends, staycations, and international travel. With multiple mid-week breaks and extended Eid holidays, residents can easily turn a few annual leave days into long, well-deserved getaways.
Whether you’re planning family trips, beach escapes, or luxury staycations, here’s your complete guide to UAE public holidays in 2026 — plus tips on how to make the most of them.
Full List of UAE Public Holidays 2026
Islamic holidays are subject to moon sighting and may vary by a day.
January
New Year’s Day
Thursday, 1 January 2026
A nationwide holiday marking the start of the year. Expect fireworks, hotel brunches, and major celebrations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
March – Eid Al Fitr
Eid Al Fitr
Expected: Friday, 20 March to Sunday, 22 March 2026
This marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most important holidays in the UAE. A three-day break is expected for both public and private sector employees.
Perfect for:
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Beach resorts
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Family staycations
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Regional travel (Oman, Turkey, Georgia)
May – Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha
Arafat Day
Tuesday, 26 May 2026
Eid Al Adha
Wednesday, 27 May to Friday, 29 May 2026
This is traditionally the longest holiday break of the year. With the weekend added, residents can enjoy up to five consecutive days off.
Ideal for:
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Long-haul travel
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Summer Europe trips
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Maldives, Bali, Thailand escapes
June – Islamic New Year
Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year)
Expected: Monday, 15 June 2026
A quiet national holiday marking the beginning of the Islamic lunar year.
August – Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
Expected: Tuesday, 25 August 2026
A peaceful religious holiday observed across the country.
December – UAE National Day
UAE National Day
Wednesday, 2 December & Thursday, 3 December 2026
One of the biggest celebrations in the country with parades, fireworks, air shows, and concerts.
With the weekend added, this becomes a perfect long break for year-end travel.
Best Long Weekends in 2026
Here’s how you can maximise your annual leave:
New Year Long Weekend
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Holiday: Thursday, 1 January
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Take leave: Friday, 2 January
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Enjoy: 4-day weekend
Eid Al Fitr Break
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Holidays: Friday to Sunday (20–22 March)
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Take leave: Monday to Thursday
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Enjoy: Up to 9 days off
Eid Al Adha Mega Break
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Holidays: Tuesday to Friday (26–29 May)
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Take leave: Monday and following week
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Enjoy: Up to 10 days off
National Day Long Weekend
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Holidays: Wednesday & Thursday (2–3 December)
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Weekend: Friday to Sunday
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Enjoy: 5-day break
Best Times to Travel in 2026
| Holiday | Best Destinations |
|---|---|
| New Year | Europe, Maldives, Seychelles |
| Eid Al Fitr | Turkey, Georgia, Oman |
| Eid Al Adha | Europe, Bali, Thailand |
| Islamic New Year | Local staycations |
| Prophet’s Birthday | Short city breaks |
| National Day | Winter destinations, ski trips |
